Thomas Hynes dies at age 80

Former Cook County Assessor Thomas Hynes died early Saturday morning at age 80, officials said.

Hynes serves as president of the Illinois Senate and served as county assessor for 19 years starting in 1978.

“Due to his 18 years as Cook County Assessor, his 8 years as Illinois State Senator and 25 years as 19th Ward committeeman, there can be no overestimating the influence of Tom Hynes on city, county, and state politics,” read a Cook County Assessor’s Office Facebook post. “His impact was felt even decades after he held office.”

“With his passing, Tom Hynes leaves behind an outsized legacy for the people of Illinois,” issued Governor Pritzker in a statement.

“On top of his many accomplishments, including his early support of the Equal Rights Amendment, Tom raised a family of committed public servants who are making a difference that will endure for generations. Every parent hopes that will be the mark they leave. I’m proud to call two of his sons, Dan and Matt, my dear friends, and the values of service, decency and hard work that they learned from their father live on in them.”

Similarly, Mayor Emanuel also released a statement Saturday.

“From his earliest days in the Illinois State Senate, including serving as Senate President, through his years as Cook County Assessor, Tom Hynes was a dedicated public servant and a true gentleman who represented his constituents and residents across Illinois with consummate class and dignity. A lifelong Chicagoan, his personal life exhibited a devotion to his cherished friends and family, in whom he instilled the same recognition of the value and promise of public service.

Tom leaves a special mark on our city. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Hynes family during this difficult time.”

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